Hamas begins celebration of its 23rd anniversary with mass rally in Gaza

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Speaking at a rally today, 14th December, to mark the 23rd anniversary of the founding of the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), prime minister Ismail Haniyeh declared his movement would remain loyal to the constants of the Palestinian national struggle; and it would continue to make its decisions independently and free of external pressures.

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In what was believed to be one of the largest political rallies ever staged in Palestine, Haniyeh said his government in the Gaza Strip was committed to reconciliation, but would only pursue it with the same degree of urgency and commitment as that demonstrated by Fateh.

Haniyeh insisted that Hamas was open to internal and external dialogue, saying; “We have allies in the Palestinian arena and beyond, we are a movement open to everyone.”

He said his movement, which led the project of resistance, cherishes its relations with the Arab countries, Islamic nation and humanity at large; but it was not seeking, or awaiting the approval of America to pursue the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.

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MEMO Photographer: Mohammed Asad